Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Make a sustaining gift today to support local journalism!

N.H. Launches Criminal Probe Into Police Use of Force Following High-Speed Chase

The state is investigating whether police used an inappropriate amount of force as they took a Massachusetts man into custody Wednesday in Nashua. 

The New Hampshire Attorney General's office will head up the investigation, which Senior Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey Strelzin says is already underway.

"Our office is going to be conducting a criminal investigation to determine what force was used last night in Nashua, by whom, and whether it was appropriate under the law," Strelzin said. He gave no additional details on how the investigation will be conducted or how long it may take. 

News footage of Wednesday's incident shows Richard Simone of Worcester slowly stepping out of his truck in Nashua, at the end of an hour-long police chase through northern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire.

As Simone appears to kneel and put his hands on the ground, a group of officers from unidentified agencies surround him, and at least two punch him multiple times.

Massachusetts State Police are also reviewing the incident.

Simone appeared in court Thursday morning in Nashua; according to a WCVB reporter, he appeared to have bruises and swelling on his face. 

Simone will head back to Massachusetts to face multiple charges, including assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, larceny and failure to stop for police.

Related Content

You make NHPR possible.

NHPR is nonprofit and independent. We rely on readers like you to support the local, national, and international coverage on this website. Your support makes this news available to everyone.

Give today. A monthly donation of $5 makes a real difference.